The wireless charging module (WCM) unveiled by Astronics Advanced Electronic Systems (AES) in April 2018 has been selected for integration by various seat suppliers. They plan to integrate the unit into seats and furniture, enabling passengers to charge Qi-enabled wireless devices. The first aircraft to feature the PED charging technology should roll out in early 2019.
“Astronics AES envisioned the wireless charging module to augment existing EmPower products offered today,” said Mark Peabody, president of Astronics AES.
“This is becoming a reality as it provides airlines another way to give passengers all the comforts of the home or office right at the airline seat. The wireless charger can be integrated with existing EmPower products offered from Astronics or from IFE suppliers using Astronics power supplies in their IFE offering.”
More than 240 airlines have adopted EmPower in-seat charging systems. The new WCM is a 15W, Qi-certified charger. It works with Qi-enabled devices including models from Apple, Samsung and others.
Astronics AES has wireless charging programs lined up for 2019 and beyond.
